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Effect of AgNPs on PLA-Based Biocomposites with Polysaccharides: Biodegradability, Antibacterial Activity and Features

Summary

Scientists created new eco-friendly plastic films made from corn-based PLA combined with natural starches and tiny silver particles. These films can break down in soil while also killing harmful bacteria, making them ideal for food packaging. The materials maintained good antibacterial properties even as they slowly degraded in the environment, showing promise as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics.

Background

There is growing demand for polymeric materials with antimicrobial activity and biodegradability properties. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a promising biodegradable polymer for packaging and biomedical applications. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and natural polysaccharides are being investigated as additives to enhance these properties.

Objective

The study aims to create multifunctional biocomposites based on plasticized PLA with silver nanoparticles and natural polysaccharides (starch and chitosan) that possess both antimicrobial activity and enhanced biodegradability while maintaining acceptable material properties.

Results

Polysaccharide addition significantly reduced elastic modulus and tensile strength. Maximum mass loss of 29% was achieved for PLA-PEG1000-starch + AgNPs after 6 months soil exposure. AgNPs did not inhibit fungal biodegradation, and biocomposites demonstrated inhibitory effects against most tested bacteria including E. coli, M. luteus, and B. subtilis.

Conclusion

The biocomposites successfully combine biodegradability and antibacterial activity, with polysaccharides promoting soil degradation regardless of AgNP presence. These materials show promise for applications in biodegradable packaging and biomedical fields, though fungal biodestructors remain active even with antimicrobial additives.
  • Published in:International Journal of Molecular Sciences,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 41303400, DOI: 10.3390/ijms262210916
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